My Literacy Journey

Literacy is often thought of simply as the ability to read and write, but its significance goes far beyond these basic skills. At its core, literacy serves as a bridge that connects us through our shared use of language. It is not just about understanding and producing words, it is about engaging with the ideas and emotions those words convey. My journey with reading offers a clear example of how literacy involves much more than just recognizing words on a page. It deeply shapes our ability to build meaningful connections with others and to engage with the world around us in a more meaningful way. From the beginning, the support and encouragement I received from my parents played a crucial role in my literacy development. Their guidance helped
The rise of social media and demanding sports activities led to a lack of interest in books. Spending hours on my phone and participating in sports left me little time for reading. School reading assignments often felt like obligations rather than sources of enjoyment. The material frequently seemed dry and uninspiring, which led to feeling more disconnected from the literature. During high school, external distractions and dull materials can make it hard to stay interested in reading. The turning point in my reading journey came when a friend recommended It Ends With Us. Initially reluctant, I decided to read it, and the novel’s emotional complexity and relatability sparked my love for literature again. This new interest led me to seek out other books on topics I was genuinely passionate about. Unlike the fast-moving and brief experiences you get from social media, reading provides a much deeper and more meaningful experience. It allows me to connect with detailed stories and emotions, offering a more engaging way to understand and enjoy different perspectives. My grandma and I started visiting the Topeka Public Library, which became a regular